Local News

The Los Alamos Public School Board of Education approved the 2008-2009 budget, citing concerns over decreased enrollment and discussing ways to relieve increased costs for food services during its special board meeting Thursday.

In an attempt to make up strong financial losses caused by rising insurance rates and a drop in enrollment, School Board President Steve Girrens and other board members suggested “opening the doors” to out of district students.

Focused efforts are underway to minimize the impact Diamond Drive Phase II has on area businesses, commuters, bicyclists and pedestrians. Council voted 6-to-1 Tuesday in favor of retaining a split-phased traffic signal at the intersection of Diamond Drive / Arkansas Avenue / 38th Street while road construction affects the area’s ebb and flow.

Council Vice Chair Robert Gibson voted against the motion.

A surprisingly agile silver robot made its way across a wooden walkway, picked up a bright yellow Frisbee, rolled backward and hung the Frisbee high on a nail embedded in a wooden stake. The machine then moved on to a nearby table, where it picked up a mousetrap, crossed a pile of car tires and, without tripping it, placed the mousetrap down on another table.

This was one of 10 innovative courses timed and critiqued by judges during the two-and-a-half-day 2008 Robot Rodeo, which wrapped up today at noon at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Monday’s Memorial Day program at Guaje Pines will feature Ferenc (Frank) Morton Szasz speaking on the theme of New Mexico during the era of the second World War.

“It’s very important to honor all of the men and women who served our country and this year we want to especially honor our WWII veterans,” said Jim Rubin, program coordinator and member of the local Elks Lodge, adding that the public is invited to attend the annual event.